Lexus RC F GT3: 400kW rear-drive coupe races to Geneva

The Lexus RC F GT3 Concept will race into the halls of the Geneva motor show tomorrow as a preview of the Japanese brand’s racing aspirations in 2015.

With a tuned 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine from the IS F and RC F now producing power “approaching 400 kilowatts” and a kerb weight of just 1250kg, the Lexus RC F GT3 Concept has been developed specifically to GT3 international racing standards.

The RC F GT3 Concept is 4.705 metres long, 2.0m wide and is 1.27m tall, and rides on a 2.73m wheelbase.

Lexus says it intends to provide FIA-certified GT3-compliant racing cars to teams next year, with testing already having started this year. Lexus calls GT3-compliant racers “an attractive option for racing events globally,” listing the 24 Hours of Nurburgring endurance race in Germany and the Super Taikyu Endurance and Super GT series in Japan as two such events.

Lexus has previously stated it wants to expand its line-up of sports cars in the future, and inject passion into the brand, a message backed by Lexus Australia chief executive Sean Hanley in a statement about the RC F GT3 Concept.

“Motorsport forms an integral part of our commitment to building Lexus’ credentials in the area of vehicle dynamics, while also complementing our focus on design,” he said.

“Through initiatives like the RC F GT3 Concept, Lexus will give car enthusiasts and customers the opportunity to experience the excitement of motorsport.”

The Lexus RC F GT3 Concept will sit beside the production Lexus RC350 F Sport model that also debuts at tomorrow’s Geneva motor show. The regular Lexus RC range will arrive in Australia later this year.